Microsoft to allow third-party desktop search in Vista

Humphrey Cheung, 20th June 2007

Redmond (WA) – Microsoft has agreed to change how Vista does its desktop search in response to a complaint by Google. Vista users will now be able to pick a default search program to comb through their hard drive files. Users can also display an alternative search program in Vista’s Start Menu.

Google Desktop Search fans have been able to install the program onto Vista machines, but according to Google, the operating system’s integrated search creates a constant drag on other search programs – essentially both search programs are competing for the some hard drive. Back in April, Google complained to the United States Justice Department, but officials initially ignored the complaint.

Microsoft says the changes should be included in the first Vista service pack which will be released sometime next year.